Suicidality Patterns and Sexual Orientation-Related Factors Among Lesbian, gay, and Bisexual Youths

350 lesbian, gay, & bisexual youth, aged 14-21 years, were questioned about suicidal thoughts & behaviors, families’ reactions to youths’ sexual orientation, & suicide among relatives & friends. Results confirmed an association between sexual orientation & suicide. Nearly half (42%) had sometimes or often thought of suicide; one third (33%) reported at least one suicide attempt. Many related suicidal ideation & suicide attempts to their sexual orientation. Most attempts followed awareness of same-sex feelings & preceded disclosure of sexual orientation to others. One-quarter said a family member had made a suicide attempt, & nearly three-quarters said a close friend had attempted suicide. (46 refs.)